On 4 September 2013, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Didier Reynders awarded the distinction of Grand Officer in the Order of the Crown to Mister Radosław Sikorski, who has been Poland’s Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2007.

Minister Reynders said that the Belgian authorities wished to use this opportunity to express their appreciation of Minister Sikorki’s contribution to the development of bilateral relations between Belgium and Poland. He ensured a better understanding of each country’s positions and a broader support base for common actions.

During the award ceremony at the Val Duchesse/Hertoginnedal Castle, Minister Reynders expressed his appreciation regarding the role of the Polish Minister for Foreign Affairs at EU level. He, for instance, put Poland on the map as a constructive player in the debate on the future of Europe.

During the working lunch following the ceremony, a number of current dossiers were discussed such as Syria, the Eastern Partnership, the development of the European External Action Service and the expansion of the Common Security and Defence Policy.

Minister Reynders stressed that Belgium and Poland will continue to work closely on European and international topics. Furthermore, deepening bilateral political and economic relations will continue to be an important objective for both countries.